Image Metrics Unveils Live Driver

3D facial animation tech developer Image Metrics announced the release of its Live Driver Software Development (SDK) today. Live Driver is described as a new real-time facial animation technology that adds the capability for 3D characters to mirror a user’s expressions and emotions in real-time, via a standard webcam.

Live Driver is designed to be incorporated in a wide range of applications, allowing for personalization in social media, gaming, and online communication platforms. It supports computer webcams, as well as cameras on phones and tablets.

According to the facial animation company, just with the addition of a consumer-grade video camera, Live Driver can translate a user’s expressions and emotions onto the faces of virtual 3D characters, such as in online games or user-created videos.

“Live Driver takes advantage of the desire for online users to express themselves in creative and compelling ways with the cameras that are on their computers, phones and tablets, and now lets them use that camera for personal animation,” says Robert Gehorsam, Image Metrics’ CEO. “We are excited to see how developers will create new ways for users to interact and express themselves via their products. Live Driver is a vital addition to our growing line-up of personalization technologies, combining powerful features with remarkable ease-of-use for the consumer.”